Response:

Gout is a metabolic disorder that occurs when uric acid levels in the blood increase and deposit as urate crystals in the joints, causing recurrent acute arthritis. Approximately 70% of uric acid is excreted by the kidneys, making kidney function crucial in managing gout. When kidney filtration capacity declines, uric acid accumulates more easily, leading to disease progression and an increased risk of complications.

Frequent use of fast-acting pain relievers to alleviate gout attacks can pose significant risks to kidney health. These medications may constrict the afferent arterioles of the kidneys, reducing renal blood flow and potentially causing acute kidney injury. This risk is particularly elevated with prolonged use, high doses, or in older individuals with underlying conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. If this condition persists regularly, it carries the risk of progressing to chronic kidney disease.

Doctor, Level II Specialist Ho Tan Thong advises patients on medication use. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor, Level II Specialist Ho Tan Thong advises patients on medication use. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Pain relievers only offer temporary symptom relief and do not reduce blood uric acid levels, which is the root cause of gout. Uric acid levels exceeding the normal threshold will crystallize into urate, depositing in joints and causing severe inflammation, swelling, and pain. If uric acid is not controlled, the disease will recur multiple times, forcing patients to use pain relievers more frequently, thereby increasing the risk of silent and irreversible kidney damage.

You should visit a hospital for examination and adhere to your doctor’s treatment regimen. This includes long-term blood uric acid control with prescribed medication, combined with regular kidney function monitoring to allow for timely treatment if kidney disease is detected. Pain relievers should only be used when absolutely necessary, taken at the correct type and dose. Never self-medicate or alter dosages without medical advice.

You also need to follow an appropriate lifestyle and diet for gout patients, ensuring adequate nutrition. Drink two to three liters of water daily to support kidney function in eliminating uric acid. Choose protein from low-purine sources such as lean meat, skinless poultry, eggs, milk, and increase your intake of green vegetables and fruits like cucumber, kale, and vitamin-rich root vegetables.

Limit foods rich in purine, such as animal offal, red meat, and certain types of seafood. Avoid processed foods, pickled foods, and foods high in fructose. Refrain from alcohol and limit sugary carbonated drinks to reduce the burden on the liver and kidneys. Maintaining appropriate physical activity helps control weight, improves metabolism, and reduces the risk of gout recurrence. You can consult your doctor for guidance on suitable exercises tailored to your health condition.

Doctor, Level II Specialist Ho Tan Thong

Nephrology and Dialysis Unit

Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7